Published in 1922, Confessions of a Book-Lover is exactly what it sounds like. Maurice Francis Egan, a diplomat, professor, and critic, sits down with the reader to share a lifetime of reading. There’s no single plot. Instead, each chapter is an essay on a different literary love or pet peeve. He writes about everything from discovering classic poetry as a young man to his thoughts on the popular novels of his day. He discusses authors like Dickens and Thackeray not as distant icons, but as familiar companions. The book is a guided tour through one man’s personal library, filled with strong opinions, fond memories, and the simple joy of getting lost in a good story.

Why You Should Read It

This book is a comfort read for anyone who loves books about books. Egan’s voice is conversational and full of personality. You can almost hear him chuckling as he recounts a flawed plot or sighing over a beautiful passage. It’s fascinating to see what readers valued a century ago—some of his critiques feel surprisingly modern. More than anything, it’s a celebration of how books become part of our lives. He reminds us that reading is a personal, sometimes messy, and always rewarding adventure.

Final Verdict

Perfect for readers who enjoy a slow, thoughtful browse rather than a page-turning thriller. If you like the idea of literary history told through personal anecdote, or if you’ve ever wished you could chat with a well-read scholar from another era, Egan is your man. It’s a quiet, charming book best enjoyed with a cup of tea, reminding you why you fell in love with reading in the first place.